Smart Meetings | Page 44 of 603 | Corporate Event Planning: Business Events, Meetings, Conferences

Global meeting planners are exceeding expectations. Brand USA, a public-private partnership focused on increasing international travel, reported that in 2026, the U.S. is on track to welcome 90 million visitors one year ahead of the goal outlined by the National Travel and Tourism Strategy report. That number is up from 79 million in 2019.

Fred Dixon

The global travel trends represent a significant milestone—not just recovering from the pandemic but building momentum for future growth, according to Brand USA President and CEO Fred Dixon. “As I like to say, we’re moving from recovery to records. This achievement reflects the resilience of our industry and the incredible work being done by so many to make the United States the world’s premier travel destination,” he said.

“It’s a big goal, and we’re getting there,” said Elliott L. Ferguson II, new Brand USA board chair and CEO of Destination DC. In Washington, D.C., international visitation hit 1.95 million in 2023. That’s up 40% from 2022, but still about 15% below 2019 levels. “There’s still work to do,” he said.

To understand what the increased traffic through Global Entry means for the meeting professional community, we asked the two executives what the strategy is for growing worldwide travel.

Why are international visitors important?

“International visitation is essential to our nation’s economy and communities,” said Dixon. International visitors tend to stay longer and spend more—on average, 17 nights and $3,400 per person—making them a critical part of the U.S. tourism ecosystem. That spending directly supports local jobs, sustains small businesses, and fuels the economy—making inbound travel the largest service export for the United States.

Read More: Celebrate World Tourism Day

What is the biggest challenge to growing incoming global travel?

Elliott Ferguson wearing black polo shirt Ferguson acknowledged that visitors have a lot of choices when it comes to where to travel, and there are some challenges when it comes to the United States’ ability to compete. They include visa wait times, the overall ease of travel, airlift—increasing nonstop flights, economic factors like inflation and exchange rates and perception of the U.S. abroad.

“We’re tackling these challenges by working closely with federal partners and national organizations like the U.S. Travel Association and the U.S. Department of Commerce,” he said.

“One of our biggest challenges is global competition—other countries are stepping up their game, investing heavily in tourism infrastructure and marketing,” reported Dixon. “Additionally, logistical barriers like visa processing times and the strength of the U.S. dollar can make us less competitive in terms of affordability and access,” he said.

Dixon also looked at the upside. “Challenges also bring opportunities, and our team is focused on turning those barriers into advantages by leaning into the unique value the U.S. offers international visitors.”

What is the strategy Brand USA is using to overcome those barriers?

“Our strategy centers on collaboration, innovation and storytelling, with a strong focus on creating a sense of urgency to visit the United States now,” said Dixon. “We’re working closely with federal agencies, local DMOs and other partners to ensure the U.S. remains the world’s premier travel destination.”

That includes embracing cutting-edge technologies like AI and leveraging data-driven strategies to deliver the right message to travelers at the right time. “From a branding perspective, we’re positioning the U.S. as the ultimate destination for leisure, business events, and cultural experiences,” he concluded.

Ferguson plans to prioritize a greater focus on the MICE market and special events, as well as marketing to areas of the world that the agency hasn’t traditionally focused on.

What is the most compelling enticement to encourage international visitors?

“There’s no place in the world like the United States—our diversity of people, places and experiences truly set us apart,” said Dixon. “From the bustling streets of our iconic cities to the tranquility of our national parks, there’s something here for everyone.”

He pointed to the wave of unprecedented global events happening in the next decade, including WorldPride, FIFA World Cup, America 250, 100th Anniversary of Route 66 and the 2028 Olympic Games and 2034 Paralympic Games. “These events, combined with the diverse attractions and experiences across the country, are powerful demand generators, and provide an opportunity to invite travelers to stay longer, explore more, and experience what makes the U.S. truly extraordinary,” he said.

Ferguson shared that Destination DC focuses on highlighting unique access to intellectual capital, ease of access and prioritizing diversity, inclusivity, accessibility and sustainability in tourism experiences.

How can meeting professionals help attract more international delegates?

“Meetings and events have such a major impact on local economies, so we will continue to work with officials to underscore the impact of international delegates traveling to the U.S. and mitigate visa challenges,” Ferguson pledged.

“We recognize there’s always more to do, both as a destination and as an industry. By working together, we can elevate the experience for international delegates while addressing the challenges head-on,” he said.

“We see tremendous potential in the MICE space,” said Dixon. “Brand USA is expanding its scope beyond leisure by taking a fresh, innovative approach to identify impactful ways to support this sector in 2025 and beyond.”

He offered that Brand USA’s international network of representatives across 26 countries is available as a resource for destination ideas and introductions.

Elegant and Inspired Hotels to Elevate Connection

From the beachfront of Florida, to the slopes of the Rockies, to the historic sites of Westchester County, meetings made to impress are just one booking away. Explore these new and renovated hotels to discover your next memory-making experience.

For Florida-Fabulous Meetings

Renaissance Daytona Beach Oceanfront Hotel for New and Renovated — Lobby, Renaissance Daytona Beach Oceanfront Hotel

Renaissance Daytona Beach Oceanfront Hotel celebrates its grand opening. The property features a distinct futuristic design but offers a down-to-earth experience with its location right on the beach. It’s only fifteen minutes from the world-famous Daytona Beach International Speedway and easily accessible from Daytona Beach International Airport and attractions like downtown Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Main Street Pier, the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, the Daytona aquarium and plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment opportunities.

Across 190 guest rooms and suites, guests enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows with sliding doors, thoughtfully angled to showcase the brilliant ocean. With premium bedding, flexible workspaces and spacious bathrooms, the rooms feature a design that pays homage to the area with hints to ocean life and Daytona Beach’s racing heritage.

The property’s meeting space encompasses 12,353 sq. ft. of both indoor and outdoor spaces, such as the pillarless Ocean Ballroom, which offers panoramic ocean views. Onsite, guests can enjoy bespoke amenities such as the outdoor swimming pool and a glass pool deck overlooking the ocean, a pool bar that serves lunch and cocktails and onsite restaurant Cast & Crew, which offers dinner seven nights a week, plus a weekday breakfast and a curated brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

Activate Your Après-Ski

Hotel Breckenridge, Curio Collection by Hilton for New and Renovated — Hotel Breckenridge, Curio Collection by Hilton

The new Hotel Alpenrock, Curio Collection by Hilton, opens its doors to beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado, and is the city’s first high-end hotel. Breckenridge is a celebrated ski destination and one of Colorado’s prized historic destinations. Hotel Alpenrock is the first Curio Collection by Hilton property at a major ski resort, and situates guests steps from Breckenridge’s most magnetic attractions: the ski slopes and the historic downtown.

The property offers 205 guest rooms with a modern mountain design, brought to life with natural materials, colors and textures in lofty, open spaces. From the custom artwork, a speakeasy, and beautiful, spacious rooms, guests will find a bespoke experience. The onsite restaurant Edwin is named in honor of Edwin Carter, a Breckenridge miner-turned-naturalist who played a crucial role in founding Colorado’s Museum of Natural History. Planners will be pleased to find nearly 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space onsite.

White Plains and Wide Horizons

Sonesta White Plains Downtown for New and Renovated — Guest room, Sonesta White Plains Downtown

Sonesta White Plains Downtown unveils a property-wide renovation, bringing a beautiful balance between sophistication and comfort. In the heart of White Plains, New York, the property stands only seven minutes from Westchester County Airport, and only a 30-minute train ride away from New York City. Right outside the hotel, visitors have ideal access to iconic cultural landmarks, exciting nightlife and all the shopping their hearts desire.

The refreshed lobby amplifies the entire property’s warm atmosphere and energetic design with deep jewel tones of burgundy, gold, blue and green alongside rich woods. The eclectic design continues throughout all 403 spacious guest rooms with a residential style.

Onsite, guest will find exciting dining experiences such as breakfast and dinner at the new Whisk restaurant, a lobby café for quick bites and hot beverages and the Mix Cocktail Bar + Kitchen for classic cocktails and mocktails created by expert mixologists.

Planners will find 17 standalone meeting venues, including the 5,940-square-foot Plaza Ballroom and the 1,452-square-foot Pleasantville Room. The property also introduces the Sonesta Work Suite, a multi-zone meeting space concept that fuels collaboration through its innovative meeting room design, available for hourly rentals by guests.

The live events industry has faced monumental challenges over the past few years, but one critical issue has persisted for decades: the absence of a dedicated designation for our industry within the federal NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code.

This lack of representation has long hindered our ability to quantify our impact, advocate effectively, and access federal support. Now, we have an opportunity to change that by revising Super Sector NAICS Code 72 to explicitly include “Events.”

What Is Super Sector NAICS Code 72?

Currently, Super Sector NAICS Code 72 is designated for “Leisure & Hospitality,” covering hotels, restaurants, and related businesses. While this designation captures a portion of the Hospitality Industry, it excludes the live events industry, which frequently intersects with hospitality and represents a significant economic force.

We are asking for Super Sector Code 72 to be revised to “Leisure, Hospitality & Events,” to match the Modernized National Career Cluster Framework Approved June 6, 2024. This change would reflect the Live Events Industry as a distinct and vital part of the economy, ensuring it is included in federal analyses and programs.

Why This Revision Matters

NAICS codes are critical for federal purposes, including tax filings, business registrations, and access to resources, including emergency federal funding during national or global crises. The lack of a unified designation has created challenges for decades, but the pandemic exposed these inequities on a much larger scale. Without inclusion in a Super Sector, the Live Events Industry faces three significant obstacles:

1. Quantifying Our Economic Impact
In 2020, LEC research estimated the Live Events Industry encompasses 12 million professionals, 2 million small businesses, and contributes over $1 trillion annually—at the time, nearly double the size of the U.S. Auto Industry. Yet, because of fragmented classification across 30+ codes, collecting this data to illustrate our collective economic impact to the federal government was an uphill battle.

2. Substantiating Our Value
Unlike the Hospitality Industry, unified under Super Sector 72, the Live Events Industry lacks cohesion in its classification, making it difficult to advocate for its collective needs.

3. Securing Equitable Funding
Federal relief programs heavily relied on NAICS codes to allocate emergency funding during the pandemic. Without a unified classification, businesses in the Live Events Industry were mostly excluded, compounding decades of underrepresentation.

What Is the Live Events Industry?

The Live Events Industry is a vast and diverse ecosystem encompassing six primary verticals:

1. Corporate Events (meetings, conferences, tradeshows, product launches, brand activations, consumer shows, company parties).

2. Sporting Events (local/professional sports, marathons, tournaments, rodeos).

3. Fairs and Festivals (art fairs, music festivals, carnivals, expositions).

4. Celebrations (weddings, mitzvahs, graduations, anniversaries).

5. Fundraising and Political Events (galas, auctions, rallies, inaugurations).

6. Performances (concerts, theater, opera, dance, comedy).

These verticals include nearly 200 unique roles, from event planners and production crews to performers and rental vendors. Together, they represent a vital economic force, connecting communities, businesses, and audiences.

The Clock Is Ticking

NAICS codes are updated every five years, and the deadline for the next revision is imminent. Right now, we have Congressional attention on this important issue. If we miss this opportunity, our industry will remain fractured until our next chance to apply for a revision in 2030, perpetuating the challenges we’ve faced for decades.

How You Can Help

Your support is critical. By writing a letter to the federal government, you can help demonstrate the need for this revision. Here’s how to get involved:

Read the Overview: Familiarize yourself with the provided documentation. Overview Doc
Customize the Sample Letter: Download and personalize the sample letter with your contact information. Sample Letter
Use Company Letterhead: Print your letter on organizational letterhead for added credibility.
Send Your Letter: Save the completed letter as a PDF and email it to Laura Palker by Jan. 15, 2025.

Together, We Can Create Change

Revising Super Sector NAICS Code 72 to Leisure, Hospitality & Events is about more than recognition. It ensures the Live Events Industry has the resources, representation, and resilience to thrive. By uniting our voices, we can improve data collection, strengthen advocacy, and secure equitable treatment in federal initiatives.

Take five minutes today to write your letter and help make this critical revision a reality. Let’s show the federal government that the live events industry is a vital economic force deserving proper inclusion.

If you care about protecting our industry from future crises—or the crisis happening now for industry colleagues currently affected the fires in Los Angeles—take action today. Together, we can ensure the Live Events Industry receives the recognition and resources it has long deserved.

For questions, reach out to me at [email protected]. Thank you for standing with us in this vital effort.

—

Wendy Porter is the founder and chief event strategist at Wendy Porter Events LLC, a Minneapolis-based events agency. An award-winning industry leader, Wendy was recently honored with the 2024 Smart Women in Meetings Visionary Award.

She serves as vice chair of government affairs for the Live Events Coalition (LEC) and played a key role in lobbying over 100 Members of Congress during the pandemic. Wendy’s leadership contributed to the passage of HB 3807 in the US House of Representatives in 2022, which sought relief for hard-hit businesses in the live events industry but narrowly failed in the US Senate.

When you’re an innovative company, how do you stand out among other equally innovative companies? Walking the exhibit halls of Las Vegas Convention Center during CES 2025, held Jan. 7-10, might give meeting professionals a few ideas about how to create engaging activations that have lasting effects.

On the lookout for booths where attendees congregated most, they seemed to have two things going for them: attendee involvement and products in action.

Timekettle

Timekettle booth

Translation device company Timekettle creates earphones that can translate languages in different accents. The company highlighted the capabilities of its latest product, W4 Pro AI Interpreter Earbuds, which supports 40 languages in 93 accents. Timekettle’s booth featured a Spanish speaker and an English speaker having a conversation in real time while their words were translated live.

Perso AI Live Chat

Attendees could have a real-time conversation with an AI assistant at Perso AI’s booth.

The AI chatbot features a response time of 1.5 seconds and is able to speak in 110 languages, including Korean and Chinese.

RoboSense Technology Co.

RoboSense debuted its humanoid robotic prototype. One of the ways it showed off this prototype is through the robot’s capability of manipulation. Its second-generation robotic hand Papert 2.0 uses hand-eye coordination to function.

Attendees were able to walk up to the hand on display and play around with it, as it mimicked their gestures of closed fists, opened hands and No. 1s.

Segway

Segway automatic mower

Segway is a creator of personal transportation, power station and mowing products for individual consumers and businesses.

On one end of the booth, showcasing its Navimow X3 Series, Segway put up a makeshift lawn for the Navimov to roam around in; on the other end, showing off several of its scooters, someone navigated a small track on one of its latest models.

CES Live Captioning

Businesspeople in meeting room

Not engaging in the same way the exhibits were engaging, one uncommon addition was made to sessions at Las Vegas Convention Center: live captions. During sessions, on a main screen and two small screens on either side of the room, real-time voice capture provided text just below the visual, perfect for those who are hard of hearing.

Delta Air Lines at Sphere

Aerial of blue Sphere exterior in Las Vegas displaying airplane flying over beach

During the first day of CES, Sphere’s Exosphere provided a QR code from Delta Air Lines, in anticipation of a keynote from Delta CEO Ed Bastian. Scanning this code led to the aviation company’s 100-year anniversary promo website. At night, the Exosphere displayed an activation highlighting the five airplanes that have made up Delta’s 100-year history.

Delta Air Lines was the first aviation company to host a keynote at Sphere. The hour-long presentation began with a brief intro by Gary Shapiro, CEO of The Consumer Technology Association and CES, and was followed by Bastian’s keynote, with appearances by Grammy award-winning actress Viola Davis; Tom Brady, who has partnered with Delta to host his show, “Well Traveled,” exclusively on its flights; and Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, during which Delta and Uber announced their partnership. After a jam-packed keynote, the night finished off with a high-energy performance by Lenny Kravitz.

Silhouette of woman walking across image of sky — Photo: Casey Sykes, Rank Studios

Typically limited to a number of screens, Sphere’s 16k resolution, 160,000-square-foot inner screen made what’s possible seem limitless. While Bastian spoke, the screen would go from one main camera and would seamlessly double and triple as he brought out Delta employees and partners with whom he spoke.

The Sphere’s engagement features didn’t stop there; its 4D capabilities were also on display. Bastian’s keynote began with a Delta on-screen airplane taxiing toward the audience, during which you could feel the wind turbines blowing air toward you.

Panoramic view of Sphere interior

Even more memorable were the smells that wafted through the venue. Khosrowshahi gave several audience members Uber Eats gift cards; this was introduced by an Uber Eats employee driving a scooter to deliver coffee to him and Bastian on stage. Upon delivery, attendees could smell coffee throughout the venue. And during the digital fireworks show honoring Delta’s 100th year, burnt fireworks hit the senses as if you were outside watching them live.

The future of immersive travel

Artificial intelligence is slowly but steadily changing how we work, live and travel.

Herman Deboard wearing gray sportcoat and blue t shirt Smart Meetings spoke with Herman C Deboard II, CEO and founder of Huvr Inc., an interactive video streaming and marketing platform. Deboard’s company allows planners to create virtual event spaces as well as customized experiences.

We chatted with Deboard to better understand how the continuing evolution of AI will play into the development of the hospitality and travel industry.

Smart Meetings What are the perks of allowing individuals to take part in virtual tours?

Herman DeBoard I can think of so many off the top of my head. First, virtual tours make travel experiences accessible to everyone.

Obviously, virtual tours are more affordable than physical travel. You can experience and explore new places without expenses like airfare, accommodations and meals.

Virtual travel also offers flexibility. You can access a virtual travel experience anytime and anywhere.

In addition to travel, we extend our virtual touring capabilities across numerous sectors such as news, healthcare, education, sports, events, and real estate. Picture students exploring historical sites or medical professionals touring advanced facilities virtually. Think about exploring a far-flung vacation property you dream about purchasing from the comfort of your home. This streamlines the property search process and helps make informed decisions.

SM How is AI involved in this process?

HD So many people are unaware of everything virtual travel offers because it’s still so new. This is where AI comes in today. It discovers where you want to go and then shows you how you can be there in seconds.

To make that happen, AI essentially takes a peek into each traveler’s mind. If you are the type of person who enjoys traveling, you typically talk about it. AI sifts through all the information you leave in your online chats, tour reviews, and behavior and then compiles a comprehensive picture of your travel hopes and dreams from this data.

When you visit our virtual travel platform, the AI system already knows what you want to see. If we know in advance whether you hope to engage in a thrilling safari, an educational tour of historical ruins or a fun cultural exchange during a shopping expedition, we can give you a much better experience.

After your virtual trip, AI also allows you to enjoy real travel to similar destinations. In my opinion, virtual travel experiences should never entirely replace physical travel. On the contrary, virtual experiences can go a long way to enhance your physical travel by enabling you to explore a destination before booking your plane ticket.

After each virtual trip, AI analyzes your experience and quickly finds the most efficient and cost-effective travel recommendations. It can streamline hours of planning and sift through vast amounts of data to give you the best travel activities, attractions, and tours. For instance, the AI may ask you a question like, “Did you know you could fly to the location you just virtually visited for $200?” If you express interest, the system can create a custom trip based on all the things you expressed interest in during your virtual travels.

SM What is the focus of Huvr? What is your goal?

HD Huvr’s goal is to democratize access to diverse experiences. We want to make it possible for you to explore and engage with the world without the constraints of physical travel. By leveraging the gig economy and established brands, we aim to enhance the accessibility, convenience, and richness of your virtual exploration across various fields.

Our focus spans multiple sectors. In travel, we provide virtual tours and experiences to destinations in over 50 countries. In news, we enable virtual access to significant events and locations. In healthcare, we offer virtual tours of medical facilities and educational content. In education, we facilitate virtual field trips and interactive learning experiences. In sports, we bring virtual access to sports events and venues. In events, we allow users to attend and host events virtually. And in real estate, we provide virtual tours of properties for potential buyers.

In a nutshell, we aim to create a seamless and immersive virtual exploration platform that broadens users’ horizons and provides enriching experiences.

SM How can AI-powered algorithms create virtual tours that feel immersive?

HD Today, the engagement you will experience during virtual travel mainly involves connections with actual humans all over the world. However, we’re beginning to explore the use of 4K cameras aboard AI-controlled drones. We think this will make your travel experience more immersive by offering you an aerial view of your surroundings.

In the very near future, I’m also very excited to see how AI’s real-time language translation capabilities will impact virtual travel. We’re still in the early stages of language translation, but soon, we will see translations occurring in real-time. Just think—you could take a virtual trip to any country and converse with people in their native languages. I have no doubt that AI will soon be able to automatically translate whatever you and your travel guide say through the app. When that happens, you’ll be able to talk in real-time with anyone in the world.

SM What can an attendee expect from an event with Huvr?

HD As an attendee of one of our virtual events, you can expect seamless access. Whether it’s a concert, a conference, or a cultural festival, Huvr provides you with advanced technologies and a hassle-free platform to join and participate in these events from anywhere in the world.

In addition, you should expect an engaging and enriching experience. Our virtual events are designed to be immersive, allowing you to feel as if you are physically present. The platform makes your virtual experience engaging and memorable through high-quality visuals, real-time interactions, and personalized content.

You can also expect expert hosts and guides. Events on Huvr are hosted by local experts who utilize their knowledge to enrich your experience. They ensure the content is informative, accurate and engaging, providing deep insights and fostering meaningful connections.

Finally, you can expect convenience and flexibility. You can join virtual events and tours from the comfort of your own home at any time that suits you, eliminating the constraints of travel and scheduling conflicts.

SM What are the perks of a meeting planning partner with Huvr to create their event or trip?

HD When you plan a virtual event or experience with Huvr, you can access state-of-the-art technology to create immersive and engaging experiences. Our AI-powered algorithms, interactive meeting platform—which can host thousands—and real-time interaction capabilities ensure your event will stand out and captivate your attendees.

In addition, we collaborate with influencers and brands of all sizes. Even for smaller businesses, partnering with Huvr can be a very cost-effective solution. Utilizing virtual and immersive technologies can reduce the costs associated with physical venues, travel and logistics. This allows for a broader reach and more flexible budget allocation.

Finally, after the event or trip, Huvr provides your brand with detailed analytics and insights to help you assess the success and impact of your efforts. This data is invaluable for future planning.

Considering Quintana Roo for an upcoming meeting? The destination’s Tourism Promotion Council has just unveiled a new campaign that may seal the deal. Have you or your attendees dealt with delays while flying to a meeting via JetBlue? The Department of Justice took note—and has levied a hefty fine on the airline. Nervous for your upcoming event in Park City after seeing those viral videos of crammed lines for lifts? Several union officials have some potentially encouraging news.

As always, Smart Travel is here to bring you the latest can’t-miss travel news headlines.

Africa’s New High-Speed Rail Network to Revolutionize Travel

One of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Africa’s history, the African Integrated High-Speed Railway Network (AIHSRN) is set to transform the continent’s travel and tourism sectors. Egypt is leading the way by launching the first segment of this vast system and has begun initial steps on an over $8 billion project with Siemens Mobility, a key player in the rail industry. Central to this initiative is Siemens’ Velaro high-speed train, specifically engineered to withstand the region’s harsh climate.

Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility, told the press, “The presentation of the first Velaro high-speed train is a significant milestone as we work to deliver sustainable rail travel for the Egyptian people. The Velaro is one of the most advanced high-speed trains in the world, incorporating the operational experience of over three billion kilometers. This Velaro will be one of 41 high-speed trains, 94 Desiro regional trains and 41 Vectrons to operate in Egypt as part of creating the sixth largest high-speed network in the world.”

The AIHSRN project aims to achieve several key milestones by 2033, including linking landlocked countries, connecting African regions and establishing Trans-Africa beltways. Once completed, AIHSRN will connect 16 landlocked nations to major seaports and neighboring countries, ensuring seamless railway interoperability across various regions. It will also create East-West and North-South land bridges while linking African capitals. These efforts will enhance the integration of major commercial and economic hubs, driving economic growth, promoting intra-African trade and supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council Unveils ‘Luxury Experience’ Campaign

A new campaign has been launched by the Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council to appeal to travelers in search of top-tier luxury and gorgeous vistas. The campaign, titled the Luxury Experience by the Mexican Caribbean, will focus on bespoke offerings such as private arrivals, grand accommodations, culinary excellence and curated experiences. Featured venues range from five-star resorts like Atelier Playa Mujeres and Banyan Tree Mayakoba to tranquil retreats such as Habitas Bacalar and Be Tulum Beach & Spa Resort.

“Luxury is a deeply personal experience, and each of our destinations provides travelers the freedom to define luxury on their own terms, whether that means having the luxury of time, exclusivity or extraordinary experiences,” said Andres Martinez, director of the CPTQ. “From designer shopping to pristine, white-sand beaches, cutting-edge spa treatments and globally recognized golf courses, the Mexican Caribbean is unlike any other luxury destination in the world, and our transformative offerings will provide lifelong memories for all who visit.”

JetBlue Fined $2 Million for Chronically Delayed Flights

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is demanding a hefty fine from JetBlue after the airline operated chronically delayed flights in 2022 and 2023. The reprimand follows four flights that arrived more than 30 minutes late more than half of the time over five or six consecutive months; under DOT regulations, such results may be cited as evidence of unrealistic scheduling, which the agency has the authority to penalize as an unfair, deceptive and anticompetitive business practice.

The $2 million sum was reached after a negotiation between DOT and JetBlue, and comes with a symbolic asterisk, as the airline is placing blame on air traffic control staffing shortages in the Northeast and Florida, where its largest markets are. The company also cites $10 million spent over the past two years to reduce flight delays as evidence of its commitment to customer service.

JetBlue told the press in part, “The U.S. should have the safest, most efficient and advanced air traffic control system in the world, and we urge the incoming administration to prioritize modernizing outdated ATC technology and addressing chronic air traffic controller staffing shortages to reduce ATC delays that affect millions of air travelers each year.”

Progress Reported in Park City Ski Patrol Union Strike

You’ve likely seen the snow-blasted images of skiers packed like sardines on the Park City’s peaks. A strike by the Park City Ski Patrol Union has reached its eighth day—but progress may be imminent. Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association President Kate Lips has told the press that this week’s meetings with Vail Resorts and federal mediators “have resulted in large steps towards an agreement.”

The union is calling for entry-level pay of $23 per hour, up from the current $21, along with better overall pay packages and improved benefits. Many, such as Nik Smith, vice president of Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association, are surprised that negotiators for Vail Resorts haven’t reached a deal yet. Smith said, “Given the major impacts our work stoppage has had on resort operations, we are surprised the company’s counterproposal is still far from what we feel is acceptable.”

As of today, only 24 of the Park City Mountain Resort’s 41 lifts are operating, and just 75 of the ski area’s 346 runs are open. COO Deirdra Walsh took to Instagram to address the rising tide of social media backlash, citing a combination of the strike as well as poor weather conditions that led to massive lines of waiting skiers. She said in part, “There are a couple of factors at play. First, we have not had the snowfall that we usually have by this point in the season…Even with fresh snowfall, the lower snowpack makes opening terrain more challenging. Also, it is obviously very disappointing to have members of our ski patrol on strike. We have plans in place to safely operate—but there have been operational impacts from the union’s action. Each day we are opening the terrain that is safe to open with the people we have.”

Grupo Mirgor and Meliá Hotels International Announce Plans for Luxury Hotel in Ushuaia, Argentina

Argentine technology company Grupo Mirgor has announced its expansion into the hospitality sector, starting with plans for a new luxury hotel in partnership with Spanish hotel company Meliá Hotels International. Grupo Mirgor, whose interests also include the automotive, electronics, agribusiness, and logistics and services industries, will debut its first hotel in Ushuaia, Argentina, as part of its diversification strategy. Gran Meliá, Meliá Hotels International’s luxury brand, will operate the property, which will include 200 rooms, two restaurants, an auditorium, indoor and outdoor pools, and exclusive spaces such as a gazebo and winter garden.

“This is a project that was created from a collaborative vision, and having Meliá Hotels International involved in it is a fundamental milestone. We are committed to expanding the economy of Tierra del Fuego. To this end, we are convinced that it is necessary to be able to integrate capacities and wills that allow us to develop projects framed within this objective,” said José Luis Alonso, CEO of Grupo Mirgor.

In the wake of a man plowing a truck into New Year’s Eve revelers on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, killing dozens, New Orleans & Company President and CEO Walt Leger III vowed that the community’s spirit “will not be deterred by this horrific act.”

The fatal incident in the early morning hours of Jan. 1, 2025 is being called a terrorist attack and prompted the delay of the Sugar Bowl College Football Playoff between Georgia and Notre Dame at Caesars Superdome by a day.

Leger’s statement continued: “New Orleans & Company sends its deepest condolences to the loved ones and victims of the terrorist attack in our city in the early morning of New Year’s Day. It is heartbreaking to learn the names, see the photos and hear the stories of the victims. Let us be clear: Millions of visitors are drawn to New Orleans–and hundreds of thousands of us chose to live and work here–because of our welcoming people and our beautiful culture. New Orleans is uniquely Built to Host major events, meetings, and conventions, because of our world class venues, culture and walkability.”

“New Orleans shines brightly and is a unique light in the minds and imaginations of those around the country and the world. That light will not be dimmed by a single evil act,” he concluded.

The Latest Updates from the FBI press briefing on the morning of January 2 (live updates available here):

Bourbon Street will re-open at 2:30 p.m. today.
The Allstate Sugar Bowl is being played today at 3:00 p.m. and will be televised nationally on ESPN.
The FBI indicated that the attacker acted alone. That person was killed by police on the scene. FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia said, “we do not believe the public is in danger.”
Mayor Cantrell said the city is prepared for game day and large events.

Read More: Safety and Security Tips

How to Help

Provide the FBI with Tips: We encourage anyone who has information, photos or videos that may be helpful to the investigation, to please share it with the FBI at 1-800-callFBI or fbi.gov/bourbonstreetattack
Give Blood: New Orleans EMS is partnering with The Blood Center to host a pair of emergency blood drives on Thursday, January 2 and Friday January 3 from 10 am – 5 pm at 2609 Canal Street. Other Blood Center locations in the region are also open with extended hours, which can be found here.
Donate to Help the Survivors and Victims
- The Greater New Orleans Foundation has set up a fund to assist victims and survivors. To donate, please visit gnof.org.
- The United Way of Southeast Louisiana has set up the New Orleans Relief Fund to provide direct support to victims and their families. Donations will help cover medical expenses, funeral costs, trauma counseling, and more. To donate, please visit unitedwaysela.org/UnitedforNOLA
Come Visit: “Even as we mourn, we are planning our rise. If you have a scheduled trip to New Orleans, or are attending an event, meeting or convention here, we encourage you to keep your plans. If you want to support our community, please plan a trip. We specialize in bringing people together and cannot let fear win. The terrorist attack in New Orleans was an attack on all of America and our way of life,” Leger said.

A new year is here. Time to plan for 2025-26 and set your team up for success. While there are many destinations where you can host your next business meeting or event, Irvine, California, should be at the top of your list. With nearly 190,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and event space, beautiful weather and endless things to do, Irvine is a hub of innovation and productivity. Check out this list of five reasons why you should host your next event in Irvine.

1. Meet in SoCal’s Hub

Irvine is a hub for business and innovation—making it the perfect place to host your next meeting or event. Its central location is just 45 miles south of Los Angeles and 90 miles north of San Diego. Its strategic design offers quick access to major highways. Plus, Irvine is just minutes away from the passenger-friendly Santa Ana International Airport (SNA), making travel a breeze for you and your guests. And while you and your team may come here on business, it’s easy to extend your trip to make the most out of SoCal. Irvine’s convenient location provides easy access to some of the region’s most iconic attractions, including Disneyland, Newport Beach and Laguna Beach for the perfect mix of business and leisure.

2. Hotels To Accommodate Your Every Need

Irvine offers a diverse selection of 23 hotels that cater to every need and budget. The city’s hotels feature more than 4,300 rooms ranging from full-service to extended-stay options to provide comfort and convenience for all travelers. Many of the hotels feature flexible conference and meeting rooms on-site, so your guests can stay steps away from your meeting. Plus, learn more about how to save with group rates.

3. Unique Off-Site Venues

Want to make your next meeting or event truly unforgettable? Irvine offers one-of-a-kind venues that will leave a lasting impression. Race to K1 Speed Irvine for an adrenaline-fueled team bonding experience at their indoor go-kart track, which offers private rooms for corporate events. Or host your next corporate dinner at the Segerstrom Shelby Event Center, surrounded by one of the finest Mustang collections in the world. Or go all out on the event of your dreams at the 25,000-square-foot AV Irvine.

Savor Globally-Inspired Cuisine

Great food inspires great ideas, and Irvine is an oasis for authentic global cuisine. From dishes made from locally grown organic produce to authentic Asian-inspired dishes to MICHELIN-star restaurants, the city’s diverse dining scene makes it easy to host memorable dinners and banquets that are sure to satisfy every taste.

Beautiful Weather Year Round

No one wants to meet in a cold, gloomy destination. Irvine offers near-perfect weather year-round, with an average of over 280 sunny days a year. Enjoy temperatures running from the mid-60s to mid-80s. With an average high of 72.7°F, Irvine is the ideal destination to host a meeting any time of the year.

In addition to these great benefits of hosting your meeting in SoCal, Destination Irvine is here to help you every step of the way. From selecting a venue to finding affordable transportation and itinerary planning, we’ll make your next event a success. Ready to start planning your meeting? Contact Destination Irvine today.

How will you adapt your workforce to the following 5 facts?

Fact: By 2025, 27% of the global workforce will be made up of Gen Z workers, according to World Economic Forum. Similar percentages will occur in the meetings and events industry. Many of those young workers may not stay the course. Why? Because of outdated leadership, lack of positive culture and mismatched values amongst a lot of other rules and procedures embedded in tradition.

Does that scare you or challenge you?

Get ready for a very different generation that is 80% mindset and 20% strategy. Perry Marshall, an expert business strategist and author, popularized the rule that 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts. This generation will turn that axiom on its head with a focus on results rather than process. They will question your purpose and values, wonder why you are asking them to set up the booth your way and voice what matters to them.

If the experience they have at your event management company does not align with their values, expect them to exit. But employers beware because there may not be others waiting to take their spot at the registration table. This generation will likely move on to their dream job of becoming a solopreneur, starting their own company so they don’t have to confront the onslaught of toxic behaviors in the workplace that have left many disillusioned and questioning their career choices as event industry professionals.

Fact: Expect Gen Z to come to an interview for a job as an events intern and ask you more questions than you ask them. There are two sides to every desk and they are coming to interview you about whether your culture aligns with their needs.

There will be no loyalty until the organization and those who lead it, show up with kindness, respect and communications that prioritize people first, according to the employee recognition software company Workhuman. They want flexibility, fair compensation, appreciation, feedback, challenges, growth and 4-day work weeks so that they can take advantage of life-work balance. Not the other way around.

Show me the money is past. Hustle culture is past. Do what I tell you to do is past. Leaders wielding their sticks are best to throw them out and listen to what this generation has to say because you may learn something you did not know before. These young professionals are smart, savvy and sensitive.

Fact: What this generation is concerned about is the planet, climate, human element, technology, digital content and AI, according to a Whitepaper from the HR platform Workday.

Gen Z is saying, “We want something different in our relationship with work, and it’s going to be built on more flexibility, choice, transparency and autonomy.”

Millennials are also buying into what brings them happiness, purpose and value. The hierarchical job for life that we boomers anticipated will not continue to be the norm. The more entrepreneurial mindset developing in the workforce comes with some attitude. Many start with the belief that they know more than their boss at the hotel. Supervisors might want to view this as an opportunity to learn from rather than call them out on things that do not matter in the overall scheme of business etiquette.

This generation isn’t afraid to push back a little bit, and then put their money where their mouth is and leave if they don’t feel heard. Staying close to your employees by keeping a pulse on their concerns, desires and plans can lead to less turnover.

For Gen Z, communication is critical for building trust. That includes answering a ton of questions.

Fact: Gen Z workers don’t view the promotional ladder as the Holy Grail. Gen Z wants to create their own bible of business ethics and teach you to think differently. They want to know: Can I take some time off? Do I move sideways before I move up? Am I compensated for extra hours worked on-site?

A company’s mission and vision must have purpose because that’s important to Gen Z as to whether they climb that mountain with you and the team.

Read More: Stop the Generational Stereotyping

Gen Z workers are chomping at the bit for some early leadership experience even if they change their mind when they realize what real people management means. Your job is to create a space for managing others that focuses on open, honest conversations. This is a time for sincere collaboration rather than the sabotaging and bullying of the leaders who have been there a very long time and who have yet to change their style of communication.

Fact: Trust cuts both ways. Is there anything Gen Z could be doing to build trust with employers?

If entry-level meeting planners demand open communication from their employer, they must be prepared to give it as well. That requires relationship-building with trust and safety and a caring culture—something not every organization has today.

Gen Z needs to learn to treat instruction as a gift. Mistakes are an opportunity to learn practical skill applications rather than relying on theories they may have learned at school.

Many still struggle with continuing childhood habits and what they saw their parents doing. Social anxiety is one of the most intimidating aspects that they face. The elder generation grew up thinking everyone wins, and that’s just not Gen Z’s reality.

For companies aiming to build trust, safety and human sustainability, the lesson is to offer real value. Getting it wrong might prove costly.

Just listen to the chatter on LinkedIn, TikTok and other social media platforms, you will get an earful about what is wrong with the new generation of employees. But make no mistake. They care about the topics that our leaders are closing their minds to—mandating psychological safety training, mental health, human trafficking, sustainability and climate change. These topics are taboo and continue to not be discussed in safe spaces like the conferences we attend. The sooner our leaders create conversations and training on these topics, the better our industry will be for it.

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Janice Cardinale Is the founder of Event Minds Matter, empowered by Club Ichi. She continues to mentor students graduating from Seneca Polytechnic in creative design and event management. She is a celebrated leader and continues her mission to bring psychological safety training to the event and meeting industry at large.

She champions and speaks on trust, safety and human sustainability in the event industry workplace. She has made great strides in spreading awareness and acceptance for people by prioritizing them. Find Janice at [email protected]

The Smart Meetings Book Club column (now known as Smart Reads) was jam-packed with must-read literature that can take your workflow, leadership skills, networking strategies and other elements of your career to the next level. Want to recommend a book as a Smart Read of 2025? Email us at [email protected].

Ms. B’s Book Club: Creating Experiences

"designing experiences" book

In the February edition of our book club series, we curated the top reads for creating memorable, high-impact experiences for your attendees. From an in-depth analysis of the term “experience economy” to case studies on major brands’ approaches to events, we have your must-have books on how to affect effectively.

Ms. B’s Book Club: Elevated Event Leadership

Book titled "Twist the Familiar"

For our October issue, we explored ways in which you can up your leadership game. We read books by a key player in the luxury hotel business, a Hall of Fame coach, a legendary restaurateur and a relationship coach to bring you advice from the best of the best.

Ms. B’s Book Club: Sustainable Meetings

purple and green book cover with two microphones in bottom right corner

“Sustainability” isn’t just a buzz word—it’s the foundation upon which a growing number of companies base their approaches to business. For our June issue, we dove into books on implementing eco-forward practices, zooming out to include social issues, how to balance sustainability in your budget, and grounding your strategy in innovation, conservation and education.

Ms. B’s Novel Ideas: Leading with Everyone’s Strengths

Book "The Advantage of Other: A Leader’s Guide to Building an Equitable, Dynamic and Productive Workplace"

How leaders structure workflow can mean the difference between success and failure. In our August issue, we selected must-reads on how to match strengths with company roles and responsibilities in a way that fosters a dynamic and productive workplace, the “five pillars of organization,” and the power of inclusion and diversity.